El Salvador: Health And Safety Overview

Mosquitoes are a major health hazard. If you’re travelling during the rainy season, make sure you take malaria preventive tablets. During any other time of the year, the threat of malaria continues but not so much as in the rainy season. Remember to equip yourself with mosquito repellent. Dengue fever is also common.

Hygiene levels depend on the place where you are eating. Smaller establishments should be entered with caution. Stick to mineral water as tap water is not always pure. Milk and milk products should be avoided.
There are pharmacies in some towns and cities; some even provide 24-hour services. Medical facilities are basic.

With the memories of the civil war looming in the background, violence is a part of life. Most Salvadorans possess arms and shoot outs are common. However, there is a decrease in violence since the end of the war and most areas that were guerrilla infested have been opened to travellers. However driving around late at night is not advisable. Foreigners are likely targets and international license plates attract attention. Incidents of carjacking are common. Women travellers should not venture out into the streets at night especially in San Salvador. The smaller towns are safer but it’s best to stay in your room after 9 pm. Cases of kidnapping for ransom are on the rise.